Brunswick, Maine

College Town Charm with Coastal Access

Overview

Brunswick is a lively Midcoast town known for Bowdoin College, a prestigious liberal arts institution that infuses the town with intellectual and cultural energy. Its bustling Maine Street offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a historic movie theater. The town also boasts a rich naval history, being home to the former Naval Air Station Brunswick, now redeveloped into Brunswick Landing.

Key Facts

Population 21,756

Region Midcoast

County Cumberland

Founded 1717

Nearest City Portland (30 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Brunswick Is Known For

Brunswick Local Highlights

Bowdoin College

Home to a leading liberal arts institution with a beautiful campus and significant museums.

Amtrak Downeaster Terminus

The northern hub of the Amtrak Downeaster, connecting the Midcoast to Boston.

Maine State Music Theatre

A professional summer theatre company performing Broadway-quality musicals in the Pickard Theater.

The Mall (Town Green)

A wide, grassy park in the center of town that hosts farmers' markets and community events.

Things to Do

Visit the Bowdoin College Museum of Art

Explore an impressive collection ranging from ancient artifacts to modern works.

Explore the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum

Learn about polar exploration history and the Arctic environment.

Walk along Maine Street

Stroll one of the widest main streets in New England, lined with shops and restaurants.

See a show at Maine State Music Theatre

Enjoy high-quality musical theater productions during the summer season.

Walk the Androscoggin River Bicycle Path

Enjoy scenic river views on this paved path perfect for walking or biking.

Living in Brunswick

Brunswick offers a high quality of life with a vibrant community, excellent schools, and a diverse economy. It's a popular place for families, academics, and retirees, balancing a walkable downtown with access to outdoor recreation.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm and pleasant, 70-80°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 20-35°F

spring

Cool and green, 45-60°F

fall

Crisp and colorful, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Ospreys (along the river) Bald Eagles Deer Seals (in coastal waters)

How to Get There

Brunswick is easily accessible via I-295 and Route 1. The Amtrak Downeaster provides train service directly to Brunswick from Portland and Boston. It's about 30 minutes north of Portland.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Brunswick outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Brunswick

5 Days

Midcoast Magic: 5 Days Through Maine's Iconic Coast

Explore the quintessential Maine coast from Brunswick to Belfast, with lobster pounds, lighthouses, islands, and working harbors.

8 Stops View Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Bowdoin College?

Yes, the campus is open to visitors. The Bowdoin College Museum of Art and the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum are popular attractions.

What is Brunswick Landing?

It's the redevelopment of the former Naval Air Station Brunswick into a thriving center for aviation, aerospace, composites, and other high-tech industries.

Where can I find fresh oysters?

Brunswick and the surrounding coastal towns are known for their oyster farms. Many local restaurants serve fresh, local oysters, and some farms offer direct sales.